These days, bikes aimed at new riders are more inexpensive and of higher quality than ever. You can get a well-made bike that’s easy to ride and stable for less than $1000. Going for a more costly model that is expertly manufactured, has rust-resistant components, is functionally better, and is durable saves you money in the long term.
Essential Elements in MTBs for Beginners
Comfortable ride
The more you ride, the more important you feel comfortable while riding your bike. Typically, the back of a beginning bike will maintain you at an angle of 90 and 70 degrees to the ground, reducing the pressure on your neck and back. Check out Bicycle for adults, get a test ride, and compare models.
Stable
A bike with good stability will provide enough support as you balance and turn, making it easy to control at moderate speeds. A larger wheelbase, broader handlebars, and a low standover height allow you to stabilize yourself more quickly by putting your foot down on a stable bike.
Broad Tires
Look for bicycles of any kind that have broader tires than average. Improved traction and grip allow for more confident riding in a wider range of weather and terrain situations.
Adjusted to perfection
If possible, ride a test model of the bike you’re interested in, or at least learn about its dimensions and try out a bike with a similar configuration.
Read on to see the top choices we made:
Trek 820
The Trek 820 is a Cross-Country bike. It sports a Shimano drivetrain with SR Suntour suspension.
820 is a great starting point for a lifetime of off-road exploration. It’s the least expensive option for mountain biking, making it an excellent alternative for those curious about the MTB lifestyle but with a limited budget for a hybrid bike that can handle smooth trails and rough city streets.
Price: $399.99 Source: MTBDATABASE.COM
CO-OP CTY 1.1
With its low handlebars, wide 40mm tires, and forgiving design, the CO-OP CTY 1.1 MTB is ideal for beginners who want to use it for commuting, riding on paved bike trails, and going on longer fitness and enjoyment trips.
Thanks to the CTY’s Shimano components and disc brakes, you can ride in the rain with confidence and enjoy long rides in comfort with the included Selle Royal seat and rack mounts.
Price: $448.93 Source: REI.COM
CO-OP DRT 1.1
The top tube profile of the DRT 1.1 Bike from Co-op Cycles is unlike any other. As a result, beginners may ride it easily. Disc brakes provide reliable stopping capability in every climate. Consequently, it is reliable on a wide variety of terrains. The 37 Shimano drivetrain offers a large gear range, making it simple to choose the appropriate gear for the conditions. Conquer the challenging terrain and race downward.
The 27.5-inch wheels and 2.1-inch tires make this bike perfect for muddy conditions. Compared to mechanical brakes, this bike uses hydraulic disc brakes, which need less force when applied; thus, having it is a definite plus.
Price: $599.00 Source: REI.COM
Cannondale Trail 8
The least expensive choice is the Trail 8. It has lower-end yet available hardware for the price. Trail 8 is most suited for use on pathways, dirt, gravel, woodland, and similar roads. With just 75mm of fork travel, it’s not ideal for rough terrain. However, it is also suitable for daily commutes.
Price: $645.00 Source: REI.COM
Marin Bobcat Trail 3
It is the lowest-priced and most beginner-friendly mountain bike in the Bobcat Trail line. The geometry of the Bobcat Trail 3 is optimized for reliable trail performance, with a loose head tube, low standover, reasonably long reach, and steep seat tube angles.
You’ll have access to 16 speeds thanks to the 2x8spd Shimano Altus drivetrain that comes standard. With the Tektro M275 hydraulic disc brakes, you’ll have the excellent stopping capability in any weather.
Price: $819.00 Source: MTBDATABASE.COM
Cannondale Trail 6
There are several bikes to choose from in Cannondale’s Trail series. The Trail 6 is a fantastic entry-level mountain bike that excels on trails, routes, and riders looking to go out on more singletrack. The 2×8 shift is easy and fundamental. The disc brakes are excellent for fast trails and terrain, and the aluminum frame keeps the weight down.
Price: $860.00 Source: REI.COM
Diamondback Line 27.5
Diamondback’s hardtail mountain bike for novices is an excellent choice for a first trail bike because of its low price and high quality. The SR Suntour XCR fork has sufficient 120mm of travel to handle challenging terrain and gentle descents, despite the bike’s lack of dual suspension.
The 6061-T6 aluminum frame is expertly crafted by hand. The Shimano Acera 9-speed derailleur and hydraulic disc brakes are more than enough for intermediate cyclists.
The bike has everything a newcomer to mountain biking needs to start rolling, including powerful hydraulic disc brakes, enough front travel (120mm), and a flexible gear range (9 speeds).
Price: $900.00 Source: REI.COM
TIP: Depending on the bike’s size, a mountain bike’s wheels and tires can be either 27.5 inches or 29 inches in diameter. So, remember this while you weigh your options for a bicycle frame.
